Wildlife

Puma

Pumas are the most widespread of the American cats and have the largest distribution of any mammal in the western hemisphere. These large slender cats are found across a diverse range of habitats, from arid desert to cold coniferous forest, and although terrestrial, can swim and climb trees when they need to. Pumas are powerful predators and hunt by stalking and ambushing their prey. However, if ill or young, they themselves can become lunch for hungry wolves or bears. They hold the record for the mammal with the most common names - over 40 in English alone.

The Dark: Nature's Nighttime World

The Dark: Nature's Nighttime World

A juvenile puma hones his hunting skills at night by "playing".

A juvenile puma hones his hunting skills at night by "playing", much like domestic cats do. Camerawoman Justine Evans reveals the puma's behaviour at night by using specialist night-time camera equipment.

The Dark: Nature's Nighttime World

Pumas are able to stalk their prey by moving silently at night.

Pumas are able to stalk their prey by moving silently at night. Pumas are at their most dangerous when they have not eaten for several days so expert Bryson Voirin needs to fight the instinct to run. If he does, the puma will see him as prey and humans do not stand much of a chance against these incredible cats.